Spring 2003 Edition       

The Marathon   For one entire weekend each spring, a marathon softball game is held at Schmidt Field at Memorial Park. Although most of the players are members of the current senior class, innings may be played by teams made up of alumni, members of local service organizations, and so on. Traditionally, the first inning is played by a team of seniors competing against a team of faculty members.   Marathon is many things: a tradition, a unifying force for the senior class, and more.  But, a big part of what Marathon does is raise money for local charities.  The funds raised from this event are donated to local and community organizations and projects, such as the Fair Lawn Mental Health Center, the Fair Lawn Opportunity Center, and Tomorrow's Children.  There is more to Marathon fundraising than a softball game. Collection cans are placed in local businesses for at least one month before Marathon weekend.  Since 1982, the Boptones, a student-faculty rock band, holds a Thursday evening Marathon opening concert. This event is always a huge sellout!  The band also performs at the Marathon itself on Saturday night, and all proceeds from their performances goes to the Marathon. This year, they will once again have the pleasure of having Mr. Uhl, Ms. Hayek, Mr. Oliver, Mr. Friedman, and Senora Levine, as faculty guest performers.     In addition, a 50/50 raffle will be held on Thursday night at the concert, and again on Saturday at the ballfield. Other actitivies include a dunk tank for willing volunteers, games, and pony rides  Z100-FM has also promised to cover the event!   Tentative Schedule of Events    Tuesday, 5/13:  TCBY Night, FLHS faculty members scoop ice-cream for the public, and 20% of all proceeds from the evening are donated to Marathon.  7 PM to 10 PM.     Thursday, 5/15:  Boptones Concert at high school.  A group of high school students performing live rock music to generate funds for Marathon.  Concert is from 7-10pm, tickets sell out fast!   Friday, 5/16:  Kick-off with Mayor and Superintendent throwing the first pitch at the annual faculty vs. seniors softball game, a first of many games to be played throughout the weekend. Mud-wrestling continuous, dunk-tank, games for all ages, food concessions, Z100 prize fan.  All events at Memorial Middle School.   Saturday, 5/17:  More softball & Mud & games!  Outdoor concert under the stars on Saturday evening with the Boptones, bring a lawn chair.